Shopify vs. WooCommerce 2026: Comparison
Choosing the right shop system is one of the most important decisions when starting an e-commerce business. Shopify and WooCommerce dominate the market – but which platform is right for your company? In this comprehensive comparison, we analyze both systems from the perspective of the DACH market (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), where special requirements for data protection, invoicing, and legal compliance apply.
First: There is no universally "better" platform. The right choice depends on your business model, budget, technical resources, and growth plans. We help you with E-Commerce Consulting to make the right decision.
The Basics: What is What?
Shopify
A fully hosted SaaS solution (Software as a Service). You rent the shop as a complete package – hosting, security, updates, and support are included. Shopify is publicly traded and operates millions of shops worldwide.
- • Founded: 2006 in Canada
- • Shops worldwide: 4+ million
- • Model: Monthly fee + transaction costs
WooCommerce
An open-source plugin for WordPress. You have full control over the code and hosting but must take care of servers, security, and updates yourself (or hire a service provider).
- • Founded: 2011, owned by Automattic
- • Shops worldwide: 5+ million
- • Model: Free (open source) + hosting + plugins
Cost Comparison: The Real Numbers
The most common misconception: "WooCommerce is free, Shopify is expensive." Reality is more complex. Here's a realistic cost comparison for a medium-sized shop (500-2,000 orders/month):
| Cost Type | Shopify | WooCommerce |
|---|---|---|
| Base Fee/Month | €24-289 (Basic to Advanced) | €0 (Plugin free) |
| Hosting/Month | Included | €30-100 (Managed WP) |
| Credit Card Fees (online) | 1.7-2% + €0.25 | Depends on payment provider |
| External Payment Providers | +0.6-2% additional | No extra fee |
| Essential Plugins/Apps | €50-150/month | €100-300/year (one-time) |
| Theme | $0-500 (one-time) | €0-100 (one-time) |
| Maintenance & Updates | Included | DIY or €50-200/month |
| Estimated Total Cost/Year* | ~€1,500-4,500 | ~€800-3,000 |
* Excluding transaction fees, which depend on sales volume. Source: shopify.com/at/preise (as of 11/2025)
When Shopify, When WooCommerce?
Shopify is ideal if...
- • You want to start quickly without technical know-how
- • You don't have your own development team
- • Your focus is on marketing & sales, not technology
- • You want to sell internationally
- • You need a reliable, maintenance-free shop
- • Your budget should be predictable (monthly costs)
WooCommerce is ideal if...
- • You already have a WordPress website
- • You need maximum control over design & functions
- • You are technically savvy or have a developer
- • You have complex, individual requirements
- • SEO and content marketing are central (WordPress strength)
- • You don't want ongoing license costs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I switch from WooCommerce to Shopify later (or vice versa)?
Yes, but it's complex. Products, customers, and orders can be migrated, but design and customizations must be recreated. Plan 2-4 weeks and possibly professional help.
Which system is better for SEO?
Both are SEO-capable. WooCommerce/WordPress traditionally has advantages in content SEO (blog). Shopify has caught up significantly in recent years. The difference usually lies in implementation, not the system.
Unsure which system suits you?
We advise you independently and help with the decision. As experts for both platforms, we know the strengths and weaknesses from practice. Whether you choose Shopify Management or WooCommerce Management – we support you in implementation.
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Martin Ogris
•Founder & CEOMartin Ogris is the founder of clickpuls and has been working in e-commerce for over 10 years. Together with his team, he helps companies optimize their online presence, automate processes, and achieve sustainable growth. His expertise includes shop systems like Shopify and WooCommerce, strategic consulting, and the integration of modern AI tools.